Dana White, the chief executive of the UFC, has shed light on the decision behind the organization’s choice to let Michael Page go instead of offering him a new contract.
Page completed his promotional obligations during UFC Paris, where he secured a decision victory against Nursulton Ruziboev in a bout that failed to generate much excitement. When he originally joined the UFC roster, anticipation was incredibly high due to his history of spectacular, viral stoppages while competing under the Bellator banner.
Nevertheless, Page was unable to secure a single stoppage during his time in the Octagon, with each of his six promotional appearances extending to the judges’ scorecards in somewhat uneventful fashion. Consequently, even with an impressive 5-1 record inside the UFC, executives chose not to offer him a new deal—a call that White attributed entirely to the matchmaking team.
“Ultimately, the matchmakers are the ones who determine roster cuts and retentions. They chose not to bring him back,” White informed reporters.
It is clear that the matchmakers were looking for more action-packed performances, and since Page’s style did not deliver that level of excitement, they chose to part ways. “MVP” concludes his run in the organization with four consecutive wins, having only suffered a single defeat to Ian Machado Garry while alternating between the 170-pound and 185-pound divisions.
Michael Page Was Eager to Stay in the UFC
Following his triumph in the French capital, Page acknowledged that his showing against Ruziboev fell short of expectations and conceded that he should have fought with greater urgency.
Even so, he expressed a strong desire to negotiate a new contract with UFC management, pledging to bring more crowd-pleasing battles and spectacular finishes in his future bouts.
“I will meet with the promotion and have a candid talk,” Page told UFC News. “I want to tell them, ‘Listen, I realize I am capable of doing better, and I want to push myself. I belong at the top. Match me with top-tier talent and trust that I will put on a spectacular show for the fans.'”
Currently boasting a professional record of 26-3 alongside a four-fight win-streak, “MVP” is now on the open market. This free-agent status could prompt organizations like the PFL, BKFC, or the latest venture from Scott Coker to pursue his services.
Does it come as a surprise to you that the UFC decided against giving Michael Page a new contract?
This piece was originally published on BJPENN.COM
